Help with Sport Trac 4X4 differences

[PCPoppa]

I am new to Explorer Forums and find them very interesting.
I am now looking for a Sport Trac to flat tow behind my motorhome. I prefer the 2001-2005 models because they are lighter.
My problem is that I don't know what models are flat towable. I've found some posts that give info, but they talk about pressing the 4X4 AUTO button. Every 4X4 Sport Trac I've seen has a switch marked 4X2, 4X4 HI, and 4X4 LO but no buttons. What is the difference? Are they both towable?
I understand there has to be some computer programming, but I'm confused about exactly what the model differences are.
Any help would be much appreciated. I'd also be interested in any comments, pro or con, on flat towing the early Sport Tracs.
Thanks.
Gordon

 

[MidnightRebel07]

There's no differences in the transfercases, they all have 4wd switches on the dash. There's a couple different companies out there that sell kits to flat tow your ST. I think you'd be better making a thread in the towing section and titling it "What all is needed to flat tow a Explorer Sport Trac?" Or do some searches in that section. I've recently asked the same question but I won't be running the ST's original drivetrain when I do it so the kits out there I for these trucks with my setup won't work.

 

[ncranchero]

'01 & '02 can be flat towed only if they are manual transmissions.
'03 manual towable
'03-'05 automatic 4x4 only with kit #3L2Z-7H332-AA (IIRC no manuals in '04 & '05)

The kits are no longer available.

I just emailed you the TSB's and a contact to help you out.

 

[MidnightRebel07]

Thanks Steve, I was hoping you or swshawaii would chime in on this. I was told by someone else on here there's a TowBuddy setup we can use on the ST's since most of the kits are discontinued. I'll try and find where it was I read this.

 

[ncranchero]

Not familiar with Towbuddy.
Post it up for me too if you find it.
Nothing much to Fords kit except a light and a Ford dealer with the knowledge and willingness to help reprogram for the tow.

 

[MidnightRebel07]

Ok, so I found one of the things was called a Brake Buddy and was highly recommended. I'll look on the other forums I asked on.

 

[PCPoppa]

Thanks very much.